This CNET articles definitely points out the writing on the wall. To compete in today's market the more Linux like release schedule is the way to go. Look at Google and Apple. Also direct to consumer improvements are the only way to stay in the game. Microsoft has been late adopting this strategy, but the tactics they are using now for releasing product is obviously guided by the recent adoption of this strategy. It is interesting to see how much competition is changing the tech marketplace. What is also very interesting is Microsoft's apparent move to a consumer focus versus an enterprise focus.

New Reality for Microsoft Releases [2]